Lecture Notes on Atherosclerosis by Fiona Wilkinson (2025)

Introduction to Atherosclerosis

• Atherosclerosis is a disease characterized by the accumulation of lipids, cholesterol, and other substances on the artery walls.
• These buildups are known as plaques, which can restrict blood flow or rupture, leading to cardiovascular issues.

Pathophysiology

• Initial Stages:
  • Damage to the endothelium (inner lining of arteries) initiates the process.
  • Factors contributing to endothelial damage include high blood pressure, smoking, and high cholesterol.
• Progression:
  • LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol infiltrates the damaged endothelium.
  • White blood cells consume the LDL, becoming foam cells and forming fatty streaks.
  • Smooth muscle cells migrate and proliferate.
• Plaque Formation:
  • The fatty streaks develop into fibrous plaques.
  • Plaques consist of a lipid core and a fibrous cap.
  • As plaques grow, they narrow the arterial lumen, affecting blood flow.
• Complications:
  • Plaque rupture can lead to clot formation, potentially causing heart attacks or strokes.

Risk Factors

• Non-modifiable: Age, gender (higher risk in males), family history
• Modifiable: High cholesterol levels, smoking, hypertension, diabetes, obesity, physical inactivity

Diagnostic Methods

• Blood tests to check cholesterol levels
• Imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scans, MRI
• Angiography to visualize blood flow in the arteries

Treatment Approaches

• Lifestyle Modifications: Diet, exercise, smoking cessation
• Medications:
  • Statins to lower cholesterol levels
  • Aspirin to reduce blood clotting
  • Blood pressure medications
• Surgical Options:
  • Angioplasty and stenting to open narrowed arteries
  • Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) for severe cases

Prevention Strategies

• Emphasize healthy lifestyle choices to reduce risk factors.
• Regular health screenings to monitor risk factors like cholesterol and blood pressure.

Conclusion

• Atherosclerosis is a major contributor to cardiovascular diseases.
• Early detection and management of risk factors are crucial in preventing the progression of atherosclerosis.